Bootheel Area Crisis Intervention Team

10/20/2026

This is just one of the many reasons our monthly Bootheel Area CIT meetings are so important for law enforcement to attend. Something as simple as a 988 Su***de & Crisis Lifeline sticker on a patrol vehicle could save someone’s life. That sticker may be the first time someone learns about 988, or the reminder they need in a moment of crisis that help is available. One sticker. One conversation. One call to 988. One life saved.

Thank you to Sikeston DPS for your continued partnership and commitment to spreading our mission of improving mental health awareness, connecting individuals to resources, and strengthening our community. Together, we are making a difference!

If you or someone you know is struggling, call or text 988. Help is available 24/7.

10/20/2026

Law enforcement training tomorrow at the Scott County Justice Center located at 131 S. Wi******er St., Benton, MO from 10:00 A.M. to 2:00 P.M. with post hours.

10/07/2026

The Bootheel Area Crisis Intervention Team proudly recognizes Sikeston Department of Public Safety Officer Riley McDonald for his calm, compassionate, and skillful response to a life-threatening mental health crisis. By applying his CIT training, Officer McDonald helped de-escalate a dangerous situation, protect the individual involved, and connect them with the medical and mental health care they needed.

Officer McDonald responded to an individual experiencing a serious suicidal crisis who was armed with a knife and threatening self-harm. Despite the dangerous circumstances, he remained calm, established communication, and used patience to build trust.

Through effective de-escalation, Officer McDonald helped the individual put down the knife and continue discussing what they were experiencing. The individual was then transported by EMS for needed medical and mental health care.

This response reflects the heart of Crisis Intervention Team training which is slowing down a crisis, reducing the potential for harm, communicating and connecting people with professional support.

We are grateful for Officer McDonald’s professionalism and dedication.

10/06/2026

365 days have passed since we lost Henry.

Today marks one year, but no amount of time will ever erase his memory, his service, or the sacrifice he made for his community and for his brothers and sisters in blue.

The Mississippi County Sheriff’s Office will NEVER forget Henry, and we will ALWAYS honor him. His memory and his sacrifice will forever remain a part of who we are.

Today, and everyday our hearts are with Henry’s family, friends, and his brothers and sisters at the Sikeston Department of Public Safety.

Officer Henry Franklin
End of Watch: October 6, 2025

Never WILL be forgotten.

07/17/2026

Training Opportunity for First Responders & Community Partners

The Resources to Recovery Annual Conference is coming to Ste. Genevieve, Missouri on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, and offers an outstanding opportunity for law enforcement, EMS, fire personnel, healthcare professionals, and anyone interested in behavioral health and recovery.

Featured presentations include:
The Cop and the Counselor: A Frontline Wellness Story – Detective Matt Cotner and Licensed Professional Counselor Jody Petzoldt share a powerful discussion on officer wellness, resilience, and overcoming the stigma surrounding mental health.

Fantastic Dopamine Hits and Where to Find Them – Pierre Benitez, EMS Health Educator, explains the neuroscience behind addiction and healthy ways to support recovery.

Event Details
Wednesday, July 29, 2026
8:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Ste. Genevieve County YMCA
1300 Progress Parkway
Ste. Genevieve, MO

Highlights
Interactive discussions
Lived-experience perspectives
CEUs available for EMS and Law Enforcement
Lunch provided

This is an excellent opportunity to expand your knowledge of mental health, addiction, officer wellness, and recovery while earning continuing education credit.

Please register by Friday, July 25, using the QR code on the attached flyer.

We encourage our public safety partners and community members to take advantage of this valuable training opportunity.

06/30/2026

Mike dedicated his life to serving others and was a respected member of the Southeast Missouri law enforcement community before moving to Christian County Sheriff’s Office. He was a brother in blue, a friend, and a man whose character and commitment to others will never be forgotten.

As we remember Mike today, keep his family and loved ones in our thoughts and prayers. Their loss is still deeply felt by all who knew them.

Gone but never forgotten. Your service, friendship, and legacy continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved you.

Today, we pause to honor and remember Deputy Michael E. Adams, who was tragically killed on June 30, 2025.

Deputy Adams dedicated his life to serving and protecting the citizens of Christian County with honor, professionalism, and compassion. His commitment to this community, his fellow deputies, and his family continues to leave a lasting impact on all who had the privilege of knowing him.

While one year has passed, the loss is still deeply felt. We remember not only the deputy who wore the badge, but also the husband, father, grandfather, friend, and teammate whose legacy lives on in the hearts of those he served beside and those who loved him.

06/06/2026

Nice work Stoddard County!

06/05/2026

Nothing but love to our friends at Bernie PD and Lt Mays family on this day.

06/05/2026

Thank you City of Sikeston for investing in the safety of our community and public safety department.

Awesome video too by the way and keep up the good work!

05/29/2026

This is awesome!